Armed skirmishes kill UP Cebu grad, 6 others

SEVEN suspected members of the New People’s Army (NPA) died in encounters with government troops in Barangay Tapi, Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental. 

Fatalities were identified as Reniel Locsin Cellon, alias Kumpol; Mary Jane Maguilat, alias Shonie; and Jhon Isidor Supelanas, alias Dalia, a Communication graduate of University of the Philippines Cebu, a transwoman activist and a student leader.

The other individuals who died in the clashes were Pitong; Jhunrey Mejares, alias Jai; Glendel Tinio Mejares, alias Ayin; and Charity Amacan, alias Cha. 

Cellon, Maguilat, Supelanas and Pitong were members of the dismantled Southwest Front. Jhunrey, Glendel and Amacan were members of the former Southeast Front, according to the armed forces.

The operation was led by the 302nd Brigade under Brig. Gen. Joey A. Escanillas. The 11th, 15th and 47th Infantry Battalions participated.

The exchange of fire began at 5:30 a.m. on Sunday, April 27, 2025, after the 47th Infantry Battalion responded to a report of NPA presence. Further encounters occurred at 5:35 a.m., 6:09 a.m., and 6:50 a.m.

The soldiers recovered the bodies of seven NPA members. They also found seven high-powered firearms, including six M16 rifles and one M203 grenade launcher.

Lt. Gen. Fernando Reyeg, commander of the Visayas Command, praised his troops, citing their relentless campaign against the Communist Party of the Philippines-NPA.

“This series of successful encounters is a testament to the unwavering commitment and professionalism of our troops. The neutralization of these remaining NPA terrorists brings the Visayas region closer to achieving stability and security,” Reyeg said. / MAP, AYB